Hello! I’m Dr Ben Yelverton, an experienced and approachable ex-Cambridge supervisor now working as a private tutor in Physics and Maths for Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level students. I also tutor Chemistry up to GCSE level. I am currently conducting all sessions online.
Background
I spent 8 years at the University of Cambridge, first studying undergraduate Physics via the Natural Sciences course, then completing a PhD in Astronomy. During my PhD, I conducted research into the dynamics of planetary systems, and published 9 scientific papers based on my work.
Alongside my research, I started working as a Physics supervisor at the university in 2016, and quickly discovered my enthusiasm for teaching. The role involved holding weekly hour-long discussion sessions (supervisions) with groups of 1–3 first-year undergraduates, aiming to clarify difficult concepts from their course and to provide some guided practice at solving Physics problems. I continued to supervise for 4 years, during which time I delivered over 300 supervisions to a combined total of over 40 students.
Having developed a deep appreciation for Physics and Maths through years of study, I’ve found it extremely rewarding to help others enhance their own understanding and enjoyment of these fascinating subjects. So, wishing to expand my teaching experience, I took on my first students for private tuition in 2019. I have been tutoring full-time since 2020, and also work part-time at a local independent school. I hold an enhanced DBS certificate dated May 2021.
Approach
My approach to tutoring is heavily influenced by my experience of small-group university teaching. A typical session with me will take the form of an informal discussion, during which the student and I will work together through a set of problems on a topic of their choice. I aim to challenge students and encourage them to think for themselves, providing guidance and explaining concepts where necessary, rather than simply presenting solutions. At the same time, I emphasise that there’s no pressure to get everything right, and make sure to keep the atmosphere relaxed so that students feel comfortable asking me any questions they have.
At present I’m tutoring exclusively online, typically via Zoom. During each session, I use a graphics tablet to make a relevant set of handwritten digital notes; students can see these, along with the questions we’re discussing, via the screen sharing feature. When we’re finished, students can keep a PDF copy of my notes for their future reference. I’ve found that, ultimately, the differences between online and traditional in-person sessions are actually quite minimal.
Practicalities
If you’re interested in my tutoring services, please get in touch. I am currently charging £60 per hour to new students. I offer students and their parents an initial Zoom meeting (free of charge) to discuss their needs before any commitment is made.
Qualifications
- PhD in Astronomy, University of Cambridge
- First class MSci and BA in Natural Sciences (Physics), University of Cambridge
- 5 A*s at A Level (Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Music) and 11 A*s at GCSE
Teaching experience
- 4 years as a Physics supervisor at the University of Cambridge
- 4 years privately tutoring Maths (Year 7–13), Physics (Year 7–13) and Chemistry (Year 7–11)
Ben Yelverton 